Tamborine Mountain has again cemented itself as a top tourist destination with Tamborine Mountain Glades taking out gold in the People’s Choice Award at the Queensland Tourism Awards.
It’s the second year running the public has voted them number one.
Owner Judi Minikin said winning the RACQ People’s Choice Award for Accommodation against all other accommodation providers across Queensland was a major coup.
“We didn’t expect to win because it’s too big an ask to expect it, but it was amazing. I thank all our guests for voting for us,” she said.
“Our guests are very loyal, which is lovely.”
Tamborine Mountain Glades (formerly Cedar Creek Lodges) also won bronze for Best Business Event Venue.
Judi and husband Bob purchased Tamborine Mountain Glades 26 years ago and it was the start of a tourism love affair that changed their lives.
More than five million people from across Australia and the globe have experienced the property.
They recently opened 20 luxe suites, The Vistas, which sit alongside the Tamborine National Park.
Judi said they offer a very special guest experience: “it’s almost like welcoming family home.”
She believed it was also those family values which had seen many of their staff stay with them for over a decade.
“We treat our staff with the respect they deserve, and they respect our guests in the same way,” she said.
They have now given themselves the weekend off and only work five days a week.
“We love it and we are always doing things like new rooms or a conference centre. We always have a capital works program on the go.”
The Scenic Rim also took out gold for Excellence in Food Tourism for its Eat Local Movement.
Scenic Rim Regional Council Mayor Tom Sharp said the award was a testament to the vision and dedication of the many producers, farmers, brewers, distillers, wine makers, restaurants and cafes.
“This award is another shining example of what can be achieved when a local community comes together to connect visitors to food, culture and country,” Tom said.
